Incisive Italy outmuscle Denmark

Italy produced a vibrant attacking display after weathering an early storm to record a crucial 2-1 victory against Denmark in Group A.

The importance of victory for both teams – level on points after drawing their opening games – could not be stressed enough. It was Antonio Cabrini's charges who held their nerve, however, impelled by his mission statement: "Winning is everything." Quickfire second-half goals from Melania Gabbiadini and substitute Ilaria Mauro put the Azzurre in a strong position, before Mia Brogaard ensured a nerve-jangling finale.

photos

Minute By Minute

The final whistle is blown.A pulsating encounter which could have gone either way. Denmark were pushing hard for an equaliser after trailing by two goals but an Italy defence which rarely concedes stood strong, taking the Azzurre to the top of Group A ahead of hosts Sweden’s game with Finland.

88

Manieri (Italy) is shown a yellow card.Things are getting a little fractious and this is a dangerous position for Denmark.

86

Madsen (in) - Nielsen (out) (Denmark)

85

Domenichetti (in) - Iannella (out) (Italy)

84

Tuttino (Italy) is shown a yellow card.Alessia Tuttino was a little late in the tackle there as Italy battle hard to retain their advantage.